Stellah Wafula passing the ball during a training session with the Lionesses in Poland last year/HANDOUT 




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Kenya Lionesses have received a major boost with the return of powerful centre Stellah Wafula ahead of the 2026 HSBC Sevens Series scheduled for February 14–15 at Nyayo Stadium.

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The rampaging centre missed Kenya’s 14–10 victory over Uganda in October that saw the Lionesses reclaim the Safari Sevens title. She was also absent when Kenya fell at the final hurdle, losing 22–0 to South Africa in the Africa Cup Sevens final at the RFUEA Ground in November.

The Impala player had spent three months in the United States with the Rhinos franchise, where she underwent a high-performance programme while also featuring in competitive tournaments.

The Lionesses’ management confirmed her return through a gym video posted on social media, accompanied by the caption: “She is back. Are you even ready?”

Interim head coach Simon Odongo said Wafula’s return will significantly boost the team’s attacking play, which struggled in the heavy defeat to South Africa. “She is a strong ball carrier who consistently breaks the gain line. That draws defenders to her and creates opportunities for our attacking players to score,” said Odongo.

Odongo also revealed that speedster Judith Auma has resumed training after recovering from an ankle injury, while Owino — who was also in the United States with Wafula — is expected to rejoin the squad early in the new year.

“Judie is back in training. She is one of our experienced players, and her speed and guile will be vital as we also await Owino’s return from the United States,” Odongo added.

Competition for places is expected to be intense after a provisional 26-player squad was named last week. “It will be tough. Several players are putting their hands up in training, and selecting the final squad will not be easy, especially with younger players fighting hard for a place,” said Odongo.

The Lionesses are set to undergo an intensive 10-day training camp in Stellenbosch, South Africa, in January as part of preparations for the World Sevens Series Division Two category.

“There are certain facets of play we are looking to refine, particularly our attack and set-piece execution,” Odongo noted.